5th Circuit denies Stanford's bail request

NEW ORLEANS – A federal appeals court Monday refused to allow Texas financier R. Allen Stanford to post bond and be released from jail while he awaits trial on what prosecutors say was a $7.2 billion Ponzi scheme.
The New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said it doesn’t have jurisdiction in the matter.
Stanford had offices in Tupelo, Jackson and Memphis, as well around the world.
Scores of Mississippi clients were among the thousands of Stanford CD investors who lost their life savings and retirement funds when his financial empire collapsed in early 2009 under the weight of a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission investigation.
Stanford’s lawyers argued to the court two weeks ago he should be freed to help with his defense. They also contend his right to a speedy trial after his 2009 indictment has been violated.
U.S. District Judge David Hittner in Houston, Texas, has ruled that Stanford is a flight risk and denied release.
Federal prosecutors argued delays in his January trial were proper. Stanford also has requested delays. He is being treated for several medical problems affecting his competency.